Download Proper Collection of Drinking Water Samples for Coliform Analysis

Proper Collection of Drinking Water Samples for Coliform Analysis
You must use the sample container provided by the laboratory. This container has been sterilized and contains a special
chemical (in the form of a white powder) that is required for the test.
Find a proper location to take a sample, preferably an outside faucet that does not leak. Remove any hoses (if present)
prior to collecting a sample.
If an inside faucet is used, remove any aerators or filtration systems (if present) prior to collecting a water sample.
Do not collect on windy or rainy days, as this could lead to contamination of the sample.
Sterilize the faucet from which the sample is to be collected in order to eliminate any bacteria present on the faucet which
may contaminate your sample. The faucet may be sterilized by using one of the following methods:
o Use a swab with bleach to wipe the inside and outside of the faucet opening. Rinse the outside lip well with water.
o Use a flame (such as a lighter) to sterilize the faucet. Do not use a match, as this could leave soot on the faucet
which could contaminate the sample. This method should only be used on outside faucets, as inside faucets could
be discolored or tarnished.
Turn on the cold water, and allow the faucet to flow for 2 – 3 minutes in order to clear the line. Reduce the flow to a slow,
steady, and sprayless stream in order to collect the sample.
Remove the sterility seal from the sample container and discard.
Remove the cap from the sample container, taking care not to touch the inside of the lid or the lip of the container.
DO NOT RINSE THE SAMPLE CONTAINER. The container contains a powder residue which is required for the test.
Fill the sample container only to the neck of the container or the fill line, and seal tightly.
HEADSPACE
Sufficient headspace is needed to
properly mix the sample. Make sure the
volume is slightly above the fill line, but
not to the top of the container.
FILL LINE (100 milliliters)
100ml
This is the absolute MINIMUM amount
of sample we need for analysis.
Samples with insufficient volume will
be rejected by the laboratory
Complete the WATER BACTERIA TEST REQUEST FORM. Make sure that Collection Date and Collection Time are completed,
as these are required fields.
Submit the sample to the Angelina & Neches River Authority Environmental Laboratory, located at 210 Lufkin Ave, Lufkin,
TX, within 24 hours of collection. Samples are accepted Monday – Thursday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Angelina & Neches River Authority
210 East Lufkin Avenue
Lufkin, TX 75901
Phone: (936) 632-7550
Fax:
(936) 633-7799
www.anra.org